Opinion: Van Persie’s Time is Up. This is the Striker Who Should Replace Him

Recent rumours have suggested that Robin Van Persie has agreed terms with Fenerbahce in Turkey. Though he helped us hugely in his first season, he hasn’t really looked like the same player since. Yes, he has showed glimpses, but the days of consistent brilliance are over. He is older and slower, his finishing isn’t as lethal as it was, and he seems to have fallen out of favour with Van Gaal.

RVP is now 31 years old and he earns £200k a week at United; if we do sell him it will open up salary space for a younger and more effective striker, which Manchester United desperately need.

Right now, other than Van Persie, we only have Rooney as an established out-and-out striker. James Wilson is good, but still young, and would likely benefit from more first-team experience at a smaller club.

We have reportedly looked at other strikers, but I believe Christian Benteke is the best option available to United. He is young, fast, strong and has Premier League experience. Plus, he’s good mates with international team-mate Fellaini which would help him settle in fast…

Though his £32.5 million buyout clause may look a bit expensive , I think he is worth it. It is preferable to spending £50 million on Cavani, for instance, who is older and looks like he is past his best (and would demand higher wages too). There is also no guarantee Cavani would be a success in the Premier League.

United also continue to be linked with Harry Kane, but £40m+ for a player with one prolific season to his name would be a major gamble. Benteke is far more proven, and could excite Old Trafford for years to come. With Liverpool on his tail, the onus is on us to move quickly.